Analyzing Stevenson's Definition Of Personal Identity

The Webster definition of identities is “the distinguishing character or personality of an individual”, however I believe a personal identity is much more than that. In my own words, a personal identity are both characteristic of the individual, as well as events that have molded them into who they are today, and what has caused them to act, or think the way do. I created my project as a metaphor to show my identities that I portrait on the outside, as well as the ones that are less visible to the public eye. Hence why I chose a hat, as one can only see the exterior unless the person wearing it reveals the interior. On the outside, it is filled with bright colors to represent how I try to come off as outgoing, positive, and bright, whereas …show more content…
He developed relationships with men like Walter, George and Herbert, and realized they were either innocent and framed to look like a delinquent, or had hard pasts that could have led to their behavior. Stevenson was able to uncover this by ignoring others opinions and allowing himself to develop his own standpoint. With this, we are alike, as I believe that everyone deserves to be treated by how they act presently, because people change, and if everyone’s worth and identity was determined by past actions, no one would have a chance to flourish into something great, as they would be held down from assumptions previously made. Stevenson also states how an “absence of compassion can corrupt the decency of a community” (pg 18), which I think is true. In order to create a peaceful community, citizens must have the ability to be empathetic towards one another’s situations in order to genuinely understand why they took the measures/actions they did. As stated later on in his book, “…Our brokenness is also the source of our common humanity…our shared vulnerability and imperfection nurtures and sustains our capacity for compassion” (pg …show more content…
For me, this is much harder due to an abusive past, which has caused me to be closed off and fearful when introduced to new people. Our identities also differ due to how he was able to hold his tongue when he realized the injustice in Walter’s case, whereas I would not have the patience to wait and gather evidence when finding out my client was mistreated. Stevenson and I experience life differently due to the inequality/racism still found throughout society. For instance, Stevenson was pulled over and harassed by officers for doing absolutely nothing wrong, and had been looked down upon by officers in jails, due to his skin color. I will never understand what it is like to be discriminated against due to skin color, but I can only imagine how dehumanizing it is, and I have major respect for Stevenson for working in such biased states in order to “help the broken” (find the